Mich. Crime Victims Get More Notice Under New Law

LANSING (WWJ/AP) – A law signed this week by Lt. Gov. Brian Calley requires that Michigan crime victims be notified of certain situations involving the defendants who perpetrated crimes against them.

Under the new law, known as “Crime Victim’s Right to Know,” if a parolee absconds, victims must be notified. They also must get a heads up from the state when the governor denies a commutation or when the inmate dies in prison. The law also lets victims show exhibits at parole hearings.

The newly strengthened requirements are being hailed by Attorney General Bill Schuette and lawmakers who say crime victims deserve to stay informed.

“Crime victims and their families have a right to know, and they deserve a sense of security. If their perpetrator escapes custody, they have the right to know, so they can plan for their own safety. If their perpetrator dies, they deserve to know so they can sleep more soundly at night. This new law will add more comfort for those who have already endured too much,” Schuette said in a release.